In 2016, Geneva University of Art and Design (HEAD – Genève) launched the PhD Forum: a meeting space and predoctoral formation with the aim to support emerging arts and design researchers who are interested in pursuing a practice-based doctorate and academic research (in different frames, HEAD – Genève providing only a few PhD positions).

Since 2024, the PhD Forum is coordinated by Associate Professors Olivier Desvoignes & Marianne Guarino-Huet (microsillons) and PhD Candidate Cyrus Khalatbari to offer a program of study, preparation and individual mentorship.

In a study program of 9 days on-site per academic year, the PhD Forum will offer lectures and workshops, in French and in English  on 1) the mapping of the PhD studies opportunities in art & design;  2) the sharing of experiences in practice-led researches and participatory action researches; 3) the conception of art and design PhD research projects; 4) the writing of state of the art and research objects; 4) the writing of research questions; and 5) the selection and elaboration of research methods and objectives. The program is a unique opportunity to be part of a network of researchers in arts and design as well as to contribute and benefit from the research culture at HEAD – Genève. 

The PhD Forum is open to anyone aiming at beginning a PhD research and ready to follow all the on-site sessions in Geneva. A master diploma is required to apply. The course of study is designed to work toward completion of a written research plan / PhD proposal of 6-8 pages (in French or English). At the end of the PhD Forum, a certificate of recognition will be awarded on successful completion. Participants will be followed by an individual mentor from HEAD – Genève.

Provisional schedule

• 29, 30, 31 October 2025 
• 18,19, 20 February 2026
• 20, 21, 22 May 2026
   

Terms and conditions

• Applicants are required to submit a one-page motivation letter in English or in French, including a short biography, academic background, a description of the PhD project, and a CV. Selected individuals commit to attending all on-site sessions at HEAD. Participation is free of charge. Applications for the 2025-26 PhD
• Forum are free and should be sent to microsillons.head@hesge.ch by September, 05, 2025.
• The press kit for the PhD Forum, including the PDF version of the call, is accessible here.